About 70 mountain infantry troops arrived in Pakistan on Friday.

MOSCOW -- Russian soldiers have arrived in Pakistan to take part in the first joint military manoeuvres, just as Russia has hosted Indian troops for counter-terrorism drills.

Russia's Defence Ministry said about 70 mountain infantry troops arrived in Pakistan Friday to participate in the exercise. The ministry said the drills starting Saturday will help "develop and strengthen military cooperation between the two countries."

The manoeuvres coincide with a Russian-Indian military exercise launched Thursday at a military shooting range in Russia's far east, which involve 250 troops from each side.

Moscow and New Delhi maintained close political and military ties during the Cold War, while the US backed India's neighbour and rival, Pakistan. India has remained a top customer for Russian weapons, but Moscow has also sought to develop ties with Pakistan.